Heatwave Alert Issued for Pakistan

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a warning for a heatwave expected to impact the country from April 26th to 30th. This forecast is due to a high-pressure system forming in the upper atmosphere.

This weather pattern is predicted to take shape starting April 26th and will likely establish itself across most of the nation by April 27th, resulting in a considerable increase in daytime temperatures.

From April 26th to May 1st, daytime temperatures in southern Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan are anticipated to be 5-7 °C higher than usual.

In the upper and central Punjab, Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan regions, temperatures are expected to climb 4-6 °C above the seasonal average between April 27th and 30th.

Some respite is anticipated starting May 1st, as a new weather system may bring rainfall, thunderstorms, and hailstorms to sections of Kashmir, Islamabad, the Pothohar region, northeast Punjab, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan beginning April 30th.

The public, especially vulnerable individuals such as children, women, and older adults, are advised to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and to maintain adequate hydration to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Farmers are encouraged to adjust their wheat harvesting schedules accordingly and implement measures to safeguard their livestock.

Elevated temperatures in the northern regions may also accelerate the rate of snowmelt, particularly from April 27th to May 1st.

Citizens are strongly encouraged to practice responsible water usage across all sectors. Additionally, powerful winds, dust storms, and lightning could pose hazards to infrastructure, including electric poles, trees, vehicles, and solar panels on April 30th and May 1st.

Authorities have been instructed to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions to minimize the potential risks associated with the heatwave.